Christianity's role in dispute resolution in Mozambique

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Periodical article

Title:	Christianity's role in dispute resolution in Mozambique
Authors:	Jacobs, Carolien Kamp, Linda van de
Year:	2014
Periodical:	Social Sciences and Missions = Sciences sociales et missions (ISSN 1874-8937)
Volume:	27
Issue:	2-3
Pages:	192-218
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Mozambique
Subjects:	Christianity Pentecostalism family conflict resolution
External link:	https://doi.org/10.1163/18748945-02702016
Abstract:	Religion is often portrayed as either a source of conflict or as a source of peace and reconciliation. This article explores the role of religion in day-to-day conflicts in two regions of Mozambique: Maputo and Gorongosa. Three factors that are of importance in determining whether religious mediation, here mainly by Pentecostal Christians, unites or divides people are identified: 1. the local or foreign background of the pastor (a foreign pastor might sharpen conflicts); 2. the socio-economic position of the believer and the importance attributed to family ties (income is an important source of conflict); and 3. the specific Christian discourse and practices (either more focused on the spiritual struggle and personal success or on peace and harmony). It appears that pastors who intervene directly between conflicting parties tend to aim at reconciliation, whereas pastors who intervene in an indirect manner tend to sharpen and magnify divisions between people. Notes, ref., sum. in English and French. [Journal abstract, edited]